The meaning of “ἐκλεκτός”
Understanding eklektós reveals the original theological depth often simplified in translation.
chosen, elect. - select - by implication, favorite
ἐκλεκτός
chosen, elect. - select - by implication, favorite
Occurrences in the Bible
| Reference | Text | |
|---|---|---|
| Matthew 24:22 | “And except those days should be shortened, there should no flesh be saved: but for the elect’s sake those days shall be shortened.” Word: ἐκλεκτός (eklektós) | |
| Luke 23:35 | “And the people stood beholding. And the rulers also with them derided him, saying, He saved others; let him save himself, if he be Christ, the chosen of God.” Word: ἐκλεκτός (eklektós) | |
| Colossians 3:12 | “Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering;” Word: ἐκλεκτός (eklektós) | |
| Titus 1:1 | “Paul, a servant of God, and an apostle of Jesus Christ, according to the faith of God’s elect, and the acknowledging of the truth which is after godliness;” Word: ἐκλεκτός (eklektós) | |
| 2 John 1:13 | “The children of thy elect sister greet thee. Amen. ” Word: ἐκλεκτός (eklektós) |
Usage Statistics
Theological Word Study: Elect
Old Testament Usage
Meaning: To choose, select, elect
The Hebrew bachar (בָּחַר) means to choose or select—God's sovereign election. 'The LORD thy God hath chosen thee to be a special people unto himself' (Deuteronomy 7:6).
New Testament Usage
Meaning: Elect, chosen
The Greek eklektos (ἐκλεκτός) means chosen or elect—those selected by God. Believers are 'elect according to the foreknowledge of God the Father' (1 Peter 1:2).